After getting arms order, Russia ditches India for Pakistan, China

2 years ago

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New Delhi: After getting what it wanted, massive arms purchase order, Russia seems to be overlooking the Indian strategic interests vis-a-vis Pakistan. Russia has said it "strongly" supports the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project as it was crucial for Islamabad's economy and regional connectivity.

According to an interview to Radio Pakistan, Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Alexey Y Dedov, pointed out that CPEC is a component of China's Silk Road and his country was also working on a similar Eurasian Economic Union.

He added that China and Russia were holding discussions to merge the two projects. This, after Russia denied last month that it was getting involved in the CPEC.

India is dead against the CPEC as it passes through PoK, claimed by India. In fact, PM Narendra Modi has discussed the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Asked about Pakistan's North-South gas pipeline project, the Russian Ambassador said they were eager to finalise the project at the "soonest".

The ambassador said the two countries were closely cooperating in different areas but there was a need to enhance the volume of bilateral trade.

About the MI-35 gunship helicopter deal between the two countries, he said the contract has already been signed and it was now for the officials concerned to define a time-frame for the purpose.

Replying to a question, the Russian Ambassador said his country wants Pakistan and India to resolve all issues including Jammu and Kashmir through peaceful means. (News24Bureau/PTI)